Paige Bueckers Scores 10 Points in WNBA Preseason Debut Amid Loss

Paige Bueckers, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, made her preseason debut with the Dallas Wings, scoring 10 points in 23 minutes despite a heavy loss to the reigning champion Las Vegas Aces. Bueckers is transitioning from a stellar UConn career to a key leadership role for the rebuilding Wings, who are hoping to improve on last season's 9-31 record. She acknowledged the increased pace and physicality of the WNBA and emphasized her focus on personal and team growth over external expectations or comparisons to fellow rookies like Caitlin Clark. Bueckers has been given primary ball-handling duties, allowing teammate Arike Ogunbowale to concentrate on scoring, signaling a strategic shift for the Wings. Despite media-driven narratives about rivalries, Bueckers remains grounded, urging attention on the team's development rather than individual hype. Her poise and adaptability in her debut suggest she is prepared to carve out her own legacy in the league.